African Climate Reporters calls on the continent’s representatives to push for climate financing, technology transfer and concrete action to tackle Africa’s growing environmental challenges.

As the world gathers to address the growing climate and environmental crisis, Africa must speak with one strong and united voice. Its environmental challenges, priorities and aspirations must receive the attention they deserve in the negotiations and decisions at COP31.

In a statement made available to the press, the Head of Communication and Strategies at African Climate Reporters (ACR), Ibrahima Yakubu, called on African representatives at COP31 to ensure that the continent's environmental concerns are adequately reflected in global climate negotiations. 

He stressed that Africa's voice must be heard and its priorities translated into meaningful commitments and practical action.

Africa continues to face serious environmental threats, including deforestation, desertification, pollution, biodiversity loss, extreme heat, flooding and the disappearance of plant and animal species. These challenges threaten human lives, food security, livelihoods and the future of millions of African communities.

Yakubu urged African representatives to stand firmly for climate justice, adequate climate financing, technology transfer and stronger environmental protection policies that address the realities of African communities.

He further emphasised the importance of including local communities, environmental organisations, scientists, journalists, women and young people in climate discussions and decision-making processes.

Let COP31 be more than another international climate gathering. Let it be an opportunity to turn Africa's demands into concrete commitments and meaningful action. Africa's voice must be heard, its priorities respected and its environment protected.

Protecting Africa's environment means protecting lives, livelihoods, biodiversity and future generations.